Some familiar names, though I have not read any of these. My most recently finished book was *Haven* by Kay Hooper, the latest in her “Bishop” series. Though i guessed who the killer was, it had quite the surprising twist at the end.

In answer to your question about *The Casual Vacancy* — I liked it. Very gritty and different from her HP series, but I think the key is to go into with an open mind.